For women over 35, the most common makeup question is: what's a good undereye concealer that won't make lines and wrinkles look cakey and dry? Beauty expert Sali Hughes answers this in her latest column, emphasizing that preparation is key. Dry, flaky skin will only look worse under makeup, so undereyes should first be hydrated and smoothed with a moisturizing skincare routine. Only then can a concealer effectively brighten and camouflage.
Top Concealer Picks for Mature Skin
Givenchy's Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Concealer (£37) is Hughes's most recommended for fortysomethings and beyond, regardless of skin type. It's perfectly balanced: moisturising and softening, but not so much that it slips and slides, and it delivers lasting coverage with just enough heft. It works as well on the face as it does under the eyes and stays fresh-looking all day.
For drier skin types, Dior's Forever Skin Correct (£35) is more moisturising. Hughes has used it for years and calls it a rare beast: a concealer offering full, lasting coverage without exacerbating dryness. The shade range is particularly well considered.
Lightweight and Budget-Friendly Options
If you prefer coverage weighted towards moisture, Glossier's Stretch Balm Concealer (£22) has a buttery, comforting texture that almost feels like eye cream. It has less pigment than the others, but if dark circles aren't a huge issue, that won't matter.
NYX's Bare With Me Concealer Serum (£9.99) offers more coverage and moisture. Despite the pump bottle (not Hughes's favourite), the texture is gorgeous – lightweight, fluid, and spreadable. The finish is smooth, flattering, and very natural-looking, making it a great, well-priced option for anyone.
For Oily Skin and Blurring
Those with natural oil around the eyes may find the above too moisturising and prefer to focus on blurring. Charlotte Tilbury's Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer (£31) is superb (and her best to date), packing in heaps of coverage – a little goes a long way – with a soft, matte finish without heaviness or dryness. It's especially flattering on mature skins with more texture.
Finishing Tips
Hughes stresses the importance of finishing. She rejects the outdated advice against using powder on ageing skin, calling it nonsense. Modern powders help, not hinder. Coat a small, fluffy brush lightly in powder and tap over concealer to set and prevent creasing.
